The new Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) requires applicants to have two years of prior work experience related to their nominated position. As mentioned in our previous articles on the TSS visa, the Department of Home Affairs (DOHA) will view this a bit flexibly, but what exactly is required?
Work experience in related field
Visa applicants are required to have worked in the nominated occupation, or a related field, for at least two years. Performed tasks must have been at the skill level as defined under ANZSCO.
Related field
The same or closely the same or closely related to those of the nominated occupation as outlined in ANZSCO
Skill level
Work experience must have been performed at the appropriate skill level. For example, work experience as a Kitchen Hand cannot be counted towards the work experience requirement for a Chef position
Do note that satisfying this work experience requirement is separate to other work experience requirements that may be outlined in ANZSCO occupation definitions.
Full time work
Work must be Been undertaken on a full-time basis in the last five years. This period does not need to be continuous. Part-time work can also be considered if amalgamates to the equivalent of two years of full-time work.
Full-time as defined by the DOHA for the purposes of the TSS visa is at least 38 hours per week. In the case of the applicant having worked under an industry award or an agreement that was consistent with the National Employment Standards (NES) where applicable, full- time work can be considered between 32 and 45 hours per week. The DOHA recognises that there are a variety of work arrangements in the Australian labour market and case by case assessment may be necessary.
Casual employment is not to be considered to count towards meeting the two year work experience requirement.
Industry specific advice
Masters and/or PhD
Experience gained as part of a Masters and/or PhD may be considered as work experience for relevant occupations, such as medical and research occupations.
School placement
Experience gained whilst studying, through a formal arrangement such as a clinical/industry placement, internship or apprenticeship that is undertaken as part of a CRICOS registered course of study, may be considered as work experience where it is relevant to the occupation**. This includes, but is not limited to:
- For medical practitioners, experience gained through internships or the final year medical training, including periods of clinical placements
- The internship component of the Professional Year Program
Experience that has been gained whilst studying, through a formal arrangement such as a clinical/industry placement, internship or apprenticeship that is outside of a CRICOS registered course of study, must be undertaken at the skill level of the relevant occupation to be considered as work experience.
Performing arts
Performance experience gained whilst studying may be considered for applicants with a performing arts occupation. This flexibility is intended to recognise performers that may have exceptional talent and are in demand globally.
Other niche occupations
Industry experience may be considered for niche or generalist occupations where it is relevant and skills are transferable. For example, management consultants or specialist technology positions.
Are you unsure as to if your work experience can be considered to meet the two year work experience requirement? Are you otherwise confused about the other TSS 482 visa requirements? Speak to a migration specialist to discuss your specific history and situation.
Related articles
Read: Legislation Released : Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) 482 Visa, ENS and RSMS Changes
Read: Legislation Released: More on TSS, ENS and RSMS Changes
Read: DOHA March 2018 Updates: TSS 482 Visa, ENS & RSMS Changes
Read: Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa: Condition 8607
Find: Occupation Lists: The Ultimate Guide
